A tactical folding knife needs to fit your pocket, give you access to its blade, and provide a secure grip. Benchmade’s Mini SOCP Folder 393SSN-01 combines a 3.76-inch spear-point blade with three opening methods and two interchangeable finger-ring configurations. It gives you more ways to configure your carry setup than a conventional pocket knife.
Price: $350
Where to Buy: Benchmade
Based on the SOCP design developed by Greg Thompson, this smaller folding model features S30V stainless steel, textured Sand G10 handle scales, and Benchmade’s AXIS lock. Its desert tan color and Flat Earth Cerakote blade finish give it a distinct tactical appearance, while the configurable finger-ring system is the main reason to choose it.
A substantial spear-point blade
S30V stainless steel offers good edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Benchmade lists a hardness of 58–60 HRC, giving you a premium blade material for cutting packaging, cord, and other everyday materials.
Blade length measures 3.76 inches, with a thickness of 0.121 inches. Its spear-point profile creates a pronounced tip, reflecting the tactical purpose behind the SOCP series. You get a substantial cutting edge, although the pointed shape is more specialized than a conventional utility-focused blade.
Flat Earth Cerakote covers the steel, adding a protective surface and giving the blade its muted finish. The coating complements the desert tan handle, creating a consistent appearance across the knife.
Choose this blade if you want premium stainless steel and a tactical spear-point profile. For occasional household cutting, a simpler utility folder is the more practical purchase.
Three opening methods in one folding knife
Benchmade incorporates a thumb disk, thumb stud, and pocket deployment hook. These give you three ways to open the blade, depending on your preferred handling method and carry arrangement.
Both thumb controls provide conventional manual opening points. The pocket deployment hook adds a specialized feature intended to engage during pocket withdrawal, reflecting the SOCP design’s emphasis on rapid access.
An AXIS lock secures the blade in its open position. Its ambidextrous mechanism allows operation from either side, accommodating both left-handed and right-handed users.
Multiple opening methods give you flexibility, but they also make this knife more specialized than a basic manual folder. If you prefer a conventional opening mechanism for everyday cutting, you don’t need the additional deployment features.
Two finger-ring configurations for pocket carry
Interchangeable finger-ring components distinguish this model from ordinary folding knives. Benchmade describes two carry configurations: a full finger-ring backspacer for quick-draw carry or a finger-ring pocket clip for a lower-profile setup.
With the full finger-ring backspacer installed, the ring becomes part of the handle assembly. Switching to the finger-ring pocket clip changes its position and gives you another carry configuration.
This setup lets you choose how the finger ring fits into your pocket arrangement. It’s a defining feature of the SOCP design, giving you a level of carry customization that standard pocket clips don’t provide.
Textured Sand G10 handle scales complete the construction. G10 is a durable composite commonly used for knife handles, and the textured surface provides traction. Benchmade also specifies a Mini Deep Carry clip.
If you want a configurable finger-ring system, this design gives you two factory-supported options. Buyers who prefer a conventional handle and pocket clip can skip the additional hardware.
Smaller than the original, but still substantial
Mini describes its position within the SOCP lineup, not an ultracompact pocket knife. Closed length measures 4.91 inches, while overall length reaches 8.67 inches when opened. That’s nearly five inches of folded hardware taking up pocket space.
At 4.31 ounces, it also carries more weight than many compact everyday carry folders. Handle thickness measures 0.497 inches, giving the grip a substantial profile.
Its folding construction eliminates the need for a fixed-blade sheath, but the handle dimensions and finger-ring components still require room in your pocket. This is a deliberate carry choice for someone who prefers a larger tactical folder.
If minimizing weight and pocket space is your priority, a smaller conventional folding knife is the better option.
Lifetime sharpening and warranty support
Benchmade’s LifeSharp service covers sharpening, cleaning, oiling, and adjustments to factory specifications for authentic Benchmade knives. The company also lists a lifetime warranty, adding manufacturer support to the $350 purchase.
A specialized tactical folder at a premium price
At $350, this model combines S30V blade steel, an AXIS lock, three opening methods, and two interchangeable finger-ring configurations. Its Cerakote blade finish and textured G10 handle complete a design built around the SOCP concept.
The configurable carry system is its strongest selling point. You can change the finger-ring arrangement while keeping the same blade, handle, and locking mechanism. Its nearly five-inch closed length and 4.31-ounce weight also make it a substantial everyday carry option.
Price: $350
Where to Buy: Benchmade
Buy it if you want a premium SOCP tactical folder with interchangeable carry configurations and multiple opening methods. Skip it if you need a lightweight, conventional pocket knife for basic cutting.
